**Spoilers ahead — Discussion of the shows events ahead.**
Walking Dead kicked off it’s mid-season return with a bang. One of my favorite episodes to date, it was filled with so many wins and losses, most notably a large chunk of the cast are now among the dead. Reading the comics I knew this episode had to happen, but the timing threw me off guard. It was a satisfying return after it’s winter hiatus. We saw the return of Corey Hawkings (Dr. Dre from Straight Out Of Compton) make a triumphant return along with other smaller characters get their chance to shine.
Bite, Chew, Swallow — Repeat
The episode began with Abraham and Sasha being off roaded by the Saviors, a motorcycle gang lead by the ruthless Negan. I had so much anxiety watching this scene, they did a good job of convincing me that one of our key characters were getting a bullet. Just as he is about to pull the trigger Daryl swoops in for the rescue and sends an RPG (the one Abraham found) blowing everyone up. This isn’t the first time Daryl will use that RPG to save the day but that comes later.
Sam Proves He’s Not Cut Out For The Apocalypse
When we left off at the mid-season finale, Sam called out for his mom as they left the house. I guess this was put into place as a cliffhanger but it didn’t pan out that way on the show’s return, instead it happened a lot later in a different way which was a bit confusing. Sam was gut wrenching to watch, you want to freak out because he’s having a breakdown that’s attracting unwanted attention but he’s also severely sheltered and unprepared for such a drastic measure. I predicted that he was going to die, but Jessie tagging along with him threw me off guard. There was a tense moment where she realized her son had gone and she gave up. It’s unfortunate because Jessie was developed into such a strong character but ultimately there’s only so much loss one can take. Speaking of which, Rick’s reaction to Jessie and Sam being devoured was gripping. He managed to hold it together but clearly showed signs of devastation.
The Wolf and The Doctor
There was a heavy dose of uncomfortable moments with Denise and the escaped wolf (thanks Morgan), the Wolf clearly having some kind of disturbing plan for her. It was clear he wasn’t going to make it far, but it was great to watch him go. This was an interesting scene because Morgan’s lesson started to affect the Wolf in small strides, beginning with him saving Denise from a walker resulting in a chunk of his arm being eaten. Denise returned the favor and chose to save him and this kind of solidified Morgan’s teachings, although it was a little too late because Carol decided to troll Morgan by putting two bullets in his chest. It was great to see Carol get the final word on this tug-of-war they’ve been having the past season.
Eye For An Eye
Pretty much the whole reason they are in this mess is because of Ron attacking Carl in the house. Ron is clearly out to fill the bratty teenager quota, he couldn’t wait to settle their differences? Losing his mother and little brother was the tipping point to his sanity, he then pulled a gun and sent a shot through Carl’s eye. Fans of the comic knew this moment was coming, it was a lot more gruesome in the comics but I still like the direction the show took. Of course, this was another blow to Rick, but luckily Michonne came to save the day. After bringing a maimed Carl to safety, Denise got her taste of character redemption and she came in full steam to save Carl.
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“Next week hopefully they will keep up the pace, but after a bombshell episode like this, maybe we need a filler to help settle the flames.”
Alexandria Fights For Their Right To Live
Rick showed his leadership this episode, but not entirely on purpose. After losing Jessie, Sam and watching his only son take a bullet to the eye, Rick had a moment of rage where he left the house to blow off some steam by slaughtering every walker in front of him. I really enjoyed watching this scene because Ricks anger and hatred for everything they’ve gone through, losing friends, invasion by the wolves, walkers taking their home, all it boiling point and he inspired the town to make a stand. This is a show where you have to earn your stay or you will become dinner. Everyone stepped up to the plate, most noticeably Eugine. He managed to overcome his relentless fear and came out killing zombies like a pro. It was good to see Gabriel finally earn a place in Ricks good books. After taking Judith and securing her, then coming out to defend the town showed that he’s evolved from that coward he used to be. That could also mean his demise is coming, Walking Dead tends to kill off people who show signs of progress.
Glen Cheats Death Part II
Glen and Enid made a break to rescue his pregnant wife Sarah. Finally, Enid decided to stop being so emo and put her nimble attributes to good use. As she climbed to save her, Glen being the great guy he is, decided to sacrifice himself again. Glen must have a lucky rabbit foot in his pocket, he’s like a cat with nine lives. As he’s about to be swarmed by walkers, Abraham and Sarah come in for the save, I knew Glen was going to live but it was thrilling to see Abraham’s bright orange hue right at the last second.
Some Final Notes On The Episode:
- That scene showing all the characters slaughtering zombies in a montage was kind of over-done and cheesy.
- Daryl’s having way too much fun with that RPG, but he definitely saved the day twice with it by lighting the lake on fire.
- I still don’t forgive Morgan for holding that Wolf, although his teachings prevailed in the end.
- Negan’s on the way and it’s going to get worse.
Next week hopefully they will keep up the pace, but after a bombshell episode like this, maybe we need a filler to help settle the flames. Hopefully Rick can keep it together because he’s going to have to lead Alexandria against The Saviors. What were your thoughts on the explosive episode?